To be healthy and to live long, we have to exercise: psychosocial factors related to physical activity among Cambodian Americans.

ABSTRACT

Regular physical activity produces various health benefits; however, relatively few adults in the United States (US) get enough physical activity. Little is known about physical activity behaviors, and barriers and facilitators to physical activity among Cambodian-Americans. Cambodian Americans were recruited from community venues to participate in one-on-one interviews and focus groups. A total of 20 adults (10 women and 10 men) participated in one-on-one interviews and 37 adults (23 women and 14 men) participated in one of four focus groups. Fifteen of the 20 interviews and all the focus groups were conducted in Khmer. Participants were generally born in Cambodia and over two-thirds had a high school education or less. About one-half of the participants met or exceeded the 2008 US Department of Health and Human Services physical activity guidelines. Commonly reported types of physical activity were walking, running, and working out at the gym. Barriers to physical activity included lack of time, inconvenient work hours, and family responsibilities. Perceived benefits of physical activity included improved health, improved appearance, and reductions in stress. Sweating caused by physical activity was thought to produce a variety of health benefits. Data from this qualitative study could be used to inform the development of culturally-relevant physical activity survey measures and culturally-relevant physical activity interventions for Cambodian Americans.